Consistency: The Secret of Successful People

Our entire life is comprised of a series of conscious and unconscious habits that either lead us closer or further away from our desired success. If there’s one thing that keeps us far from our goals, it’s a lack of consistency.

Consistency is discipline’s most devoted friend.

This reliable tool doesn’t happen overnight. Rather, it takes time to build up a pattern of positive behavior.

While it was long believed that 21 days was all that was needed to form a new habit, current research shows that on average it takes 66 days, so you have to stick with your new behavior for about two months to make it last.

4 Steps to Improve Consistency

Creating consistency is not an insurmountable task. Here are four steps you can take to create healthy routines that get you closer to your goals:

1. Get Honest About Your Priorities
Not sure where to start? Make a list of what you need to do or want out of life. Then honestly assess what is the most important (and why). When your sense of purpose is strong enough, you’ll start taking action steps.

2. Focus On One Thing at a Time
When you are being pulled in numerous directions at once consistency is much more difficult. Our brains are hardwired to pay attention to only a select amount of stimulus at a time. Narrow in on one task, and try these steps for improved focus.

3. Create Mini-Routines
Creating consistency starts with the smallest effort outside your comfort zone. If you’ve never worked out and you’re committing to spending an hour at the gym six days a week, you’re more likely to give up than if you start with smaller sessions that gradually build toward your goal.

4. Believe in Yourself
Human beings rely heavily on their internal dialogue. The problem with this is that almost all of us fall into a negative-thinking loop that sabotages our efforts. Notice when your mind begins to fall into self-doubt. Try meditation and other affirmations to build your confidence.

The bottom line is that consistency takes time and requires the formation of new habits. Don’t get discouraged when you have a day off track. Think of your accomplishments for that week and adjust as you go. As your consistency grows, procrastination will decline and you’ll have the direction needed to achieve what you want in life.